Sail Training Ship Young Endeavour has had a change at the top, with Lieutenant Commander Mike Gough handing over command to Lieutenant Commander Andrew Callander.

This was the second command posting to STS Young Endeavour for Lieutenant Commander Gough, who has accepted a shore role sustaining the ship after the change of command took place on completion of Voyage 11 in Brisbane.

The new Commanding Officer is no stranger to Young Endeavour, having already served over 700 days onboard the ship at sea in roles ranging from Navigator to Executive Officer.

With five years experience on the ship under his belt already, Lieutenant Commander Callander said he is excited to bring his own style of command to the ship.

“I’m excited and honoured to be taking command of Young Endeavour.

“My command philosophy is very simple – relaxed and professional,” he said.

Having spent most of his 24 year Navy career in Minor War Vessels, Lieutenant Commander Callander said there are a few things about Young Endeavour that keep luring him back.

“I grew up sailing in Grafton on the mighty Clarence River, so sailing on Young Endeavour is special.

“I get to visit amazing places that most Australians don’t get to see. I also get to work with specially-selected staff who are pretty motivated by their job.

“The biggest highlight though is every voyage we get a new group of 16–23 year old young Australians from all over the country, each with varied interests.

“That’s what keeps it interesting. We get to see how they develop from day 1 to day 11, sometimes it is quite a remarkable transformation,” Lieutenant Commander Callander said.

The first voyage under Lieutenant Commander Callander’s command will be Voyage 12/18 from Brisbane to Mackay.